Diana Ross delivered a devastating portrayal of Billie Holliday in her film debut, although jazz purists were mixed on her singing. Some felt she captured the essence of Lady Day, if not the exact sound, while others were less charitable.

Still, both the film and the resulting soundtrack album were huge hits, and it's safe to say that they introduced Holliday's work to a new audience, clearly a good thing. LADY SINGS THE BLUES features Ross performing songs either associated with Holliday ("Good Morning Heartache"), or written by her ("Fine and Mellow"). There are also snippets of dialogue, and excerpts from Michel Legrand's evocative orchestral score.